Touring a senior living community provides the opportunity not only to see the residences and amenities firsthand but also to get acquainted with the community’s staff and residents. We suggest having a prepared list of questions to gather as much information as possible during your tour, which will help keep you from feeling overwhelmed. The following categories will take you through everything you need to know when you visit different senior living communities — and most importantly, help you gain information and insight to find the best fit for your needs.
Finding The Best Senior Living Community For You
Outside of the community:
Is it located in a safe neighborhood?
Is it close to family and friends? Is it nearby church, doctor’s offices and other important locations?
Are there shopping centers or other businesses nearby?
Is the neighborhood attractive and pleasant?
Is there convenient parking outside, including handicapped spaces?
Is parking provided?
Is there an extra charge for parking? Is there covered parking?
Are the grounds attractive and well-maintained with gardens and trees?
Is there a secure, enclosed area where residents can walk and socialize?
Inside of the community:
How many people live there?
Are the residents friendly and welcoming?
Is the community footprint easy to follow?
Are hallways well lit and easy to navigate, with handrails for safety and room for wheelchairs?
Are the associates warm and attentive?
Are there open and inviting areas for residents to meet and socialize, including plenty of room for visiting family members?
Residences:
What floor plans are available?
Do most residents have a private living space or do they share with another resident?
Does each residence have a private, handicapped-equipped bathroom, or is there one, shared bathroom?
Can residents decorate their apartments according to their personal tastes, including photos, mementos or other possessions?
Is there adequate closet and storage space?
Do available apartments have an attractive view?
Do all units have a telephone? Cable TV? Internet access?
Is the community smoke-free?
Is the community pet friendly?
Dining:
Do the dining venues look and smell appealing?
How many meals per day are provided? All day or at set times?
Does the menu vary and offer appetizing, nutritious foods?
Are snacks provided and, if so, how and when do residents get them?
How are specific dietary needs or special requests accommodated?
Are residents able to bring food back to their apartments? Do apartments have kitchens/kitchenettes?
Can residents invite guests to join them in the dining areas?
Can you to sample the menu or visit for a meal?
Is there a private room available for family celebrations or private dinners?
Activities:
What are the most popular activities?
Is there a calendar of activities, and are there any activities that you would like to participate in?
Are there multiple fitness programs and classes?
Are there scheduled outings or extended trips available for residents?
Are there social events, clubs or committees for residents to get involved with?
Is transportation available?
Are there worship services?
Does the community offer special services such as a beauty salon?
Safety:
What security features are in place? What do residents do in case of emergency?
Are there ongoing safety protocols for visitors and residents?
Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs get around with ease?
Are the floors non-skid?
Are rooms and bathrooms equipped with emergency call buttons?
Does the community have handrails?
Does the community have sprinklers and smoke detectors?
Are there safety locks on the doors and windows?
Contracts & Finances:
Has the community provided you with a contract that details all fees and services? Is it easy to read and understand?
If there’s an entrance or community fee, how much is it and is a portion refundable?
How much is the monthly rent/service fee and what is included/not included?
What is the security deposit and is the deposit refundable?
Once you’ve toured other communities, you’ll be able to compare and contrast each one – prioritizing what you’re looking for and determining whether you can see yourself or your loved one living there comfortably. Please contact us if you’d like to take a tour of Highpoint at Stonecrest and see if for yourself firsthand.